euro-2012

Eight years on from England’s 2-1 defeat to France at Euro 2004 and the sides meet again in Donetsk, Ukraine, late Monday afternoon. Once again France will start favourites to emerge victorious, with England hampered by injuries, a late change of manager, and a general lack of quality! But can Roy Hodgson’s men ‘park the bus’ against France and pull off an unlikely result?

There’s plenty of Manchester United interest in this one, with Danny Welbeck and Ashley Young set to start for the Three Lions, and Patrice Evra with France. Suspended Wayne Rooney will watch from the sidelines, while Phil Jones will be on England’s bench.

Join United Rant for our third live blog of the tournament, with Ed and Jony Ball from around 4.30pm, with news updates throughout the day.

[liveblog]

Euro 2012 is around the corner, with 16 national teams heading to bases in Poland and Ukraine ready for the big kick on Friday. And while we’re firmly Manchester United focused here at Rant, we’ll be covering the tournament in full: current and former Reds on show, with luck some outstanding football, and a big old trophy to be won! Spain defend the tournament won in Austria and Switzerland – Fernando Torres scoring the only goal of the game as La Roja beat Germany in the Vienna final. Indeed, Spain remain the bookies favourites four years on, although Germany, Holland, Italy and France will each harbour some hope. England – not so much.

In Rant’s team-by-team preview we assess each side’s chances, pick out the key players and recall some favourite moments.

 
Group D – England, France, Sweden, Ukraine
 

England

Words by Guy Bottomley, whom can be found at Sporting Ketchup and on Twitter!

After a commendable qualifying campaign in which England finished first in Group G, six points ahead of closest rivals Montenegro, scoring 17 goals in the process, write England off at your peril! With less pressure on the team than in recent international competitions, and on the back of recent victories against Spain, Sweden, Norway and Belgium, could Roy Hodgson’s England launch an attack on the coveted Henri Delaunay trophy?

Last five Matches: (W) Belgium 1-0, (W) Norway 1-0, (L) Netherlands 3-2, (W) Sweden 1-0, (W) Spain 1-0

Fifa World Ranking: 6

Nickname: Three Lions

Manager: Roy Hodgson – with 18 previous coaching jobs on his CV, the 64-year-old brings a wealth of experience to an England team that lacked togetherness much under Italian coach Fabio Capello. Never before has Hodgson managed a country as much in the spotlight as England, but to his credit, taking Switzerland to the knockout stages in 1994 was no mean feat. However, Hodgson was not all fans first-choice for the role, and needs a solid performance in Poland and Ukraine to silence the many doubters who wanted Tottenham Hotspur coach Harry Redknapp to take the reins. This is Roy’s biggest task yet, and he will need to call upon that vast wealth of experience if England is to progress.

Key Players:

• Joe Hart, Manchester City, goalkeeper – so many times has England been let down by goalkeeping errors that Hart’s rise through the ranks is a breath of fresh air. Exceptional performances in Manchester City’s title-winning team have ensured Hart is first name on the team-sheet. A ‘keeper with fantastic shot stopping ability, and an exceptionally cool head for his age
• Steven Gerrard (c), Liverpool, midfielder – experienced and level-headed, Gerrard is a player most supporters would include in the England team. Radar-like passing precision and an eye for goal, Gerrard remains the key man in England’s midfield although there are question marks over the player’s fitness
• Wayne Rooney, Manchester United, forward – no mention of ‘key men’ can be made without including ‘Wazza’ despite the striker being ruled out for England’s first two games due to suspension. The United striker is vital if England is the progress in the tournament, with Rooney’s  genius on and off the ball set for the big stage after a few week’s  rest.

United Interest: United youngster Danny Welbeck is set to lead the line for England. After a promising full season at Old Trafford, in which Welbeck bagged nine goals, the striker scored a ‘Messi-like’ chip against Belgium in a recent friendly to leave the forward full of confidence and ready to test himself against Europe’s best.

Random Fact: Stewart Downing’s father, also called Stewart, predicted his son would create 20 Andy Carroll goals in the past season. In reality, Downing to Carroll assists totalled zero. Downing to anybody assists also totalled zero for that matter!

Defining Euro moment: the penalty misses against arch rivals Germany in the semi-final at Euro 96 cost England a place in the Wembley final.

Betting: 14/1

Sweden

Words by Rob Burnett, whom can be found at his blog and on Twitter!

The Swedes have made four appearances at the Euros –  in 1992 as hosts, followed by 2000, 2004 and 2008, with a best placed finish being the semi-finals, knocking out Graham Taylor’s England on the way, 20 years ago. Sweden had a successful qualifying campaign, winning eight out of 10 games, and beating Netherlands to end the Dutch 17 game unbeaten streak. It proved to be a vital win, ensuring Sweden gained automatic qualification as the ‘best loser’, dodging the play-offs. Rank outsiders perhaps, but Sweden has the ability to pull off surprise this summer with a team that is very hard to break down. Only four of the 23 players in the squad have less than 10 caps.

Last five matches: (W) Bahrain 2-0 | (W) Qatar U23 5-0 | (W) Croatia 3-1 |(W) Iceland 3-2 | (W) Serbia 2-1

FIFA Ranking: 17

Nickname: Blågult (The Blue-Yellow)

Manager: Erik Hamren – took over after nine-year veteran Lars Lagerback resigned following Sweden’s disastrous 2010 World Cup qualifying campaign. Hugely experienced Scandinavian manager has won three Swedish cups, a Danish cup and back-to-back Norwegian Premier League titles. Sweden has been handed a tricky group, but Hamren’s style of play will prove hard for England, Ukraine and France to break down.

Key Players:

• Zlatan Ibrahimovic (c), Milan, forward – serial “honestly he’s really good” player will once again be out to prove his own hype! Ibra is now Sweden’s captain, and bagged a respectable five goals in qualifying. Frequently rumours of him move to United have never materialised
• Sebastian Larsson, Sunderland, midfielder – former Arsenal and Birmingham City winger, who has now seemingly found his groove at Sunderland. Can be driving force on the wing, with a killer dead-ball delivery. Once described by Arsene Wenger as “probably the best free kick taker in the league”
• Rasmus Elm, AZ Alkmaar, midfielder – labelled the biggest talent Sweden has produced since Ibrahimovic, Elm is a massive threat from midfield, with accuracy in the pass and quality from free-kicks. One of Europe’s hottest commodities this summer, with United, Liverpool and Spurs all reportedly sniffing around the AK player.

United interest: United has a brief history with Swedish players, including treble-winner Jesper Blomqvist and temporary striker Henrik Larsson.

Random Fact: Sweden’s assistant manager is former Aston Villa striker Marcus Allback.

Defining Euro moment: Tomas Brolin’s 82nd minute goal against England at Euro 92 sent the hosts sailing into the semi-final and ditched England out the group, dead last.

Betting: 66/1

Ukraine

Words by Ben Coates, whom can be found at his blog and on Twitter!

Ukraine has only been a national side in its own right for 20 years, having played its first international match on 29 April 29 1992 against Hungary. Euro 2012 will be the second time Ukraine has competed in a major tournament – Zhovto-Blakytni’s debut was in the World Cup 2006, where Ukraine reached the quarter-final.

Last five matches: (D) Germany 3-3 | (W) Austria 2-0 | (W) Israel 3-2 | (W) Estonia 4-0 | (L) Austria 3-2 | (W) Turkey 2-0

FIFA Ranking: 52

Nickname: Zbirna or Sbirna, (National Team)

Manager: Oleh Volodymyrovych “Oleg” Blokhin – formerly a standout striker for Dynamo Kyiv and the Soviet national team, being named European Footballer of the Year in 1975 he was named European Footballer of the Year to win the Ballon d’Or. He was the second Soviet, and the first Ukrainian player to achieve the feat.

Key Players:

• Andriy Shevchenko, Dynamo Kyiv, forward – ex Chelsea striker was one of Roman Abramovich’s original investments, although Shevchenko’s career never really took off in England. Despite this Shevchenko can boast a very successful time in Italy with AC Milan, including winning the Champions League
• Andriy Voronin, Dynamo Moscow, forward – a true superstar with Liverpool, where he sported a fantastic pony tail, and wore number 10! Well, he might have scored in a pre-season friendly of two! Far greater success has come in the Bundesliga for Mainz, Koln and Leverkusen
• Anatoliy Tymoshchuk, Bayern Munich, midfielder – a major part of Bayern’s run to the Champions League final this year, and a hard-working player in the engine-room. If Ukraine is to progress this summer, Tymoshchuk is key.

United interest: Andrei Kanchelskis was a vital part of United’s success in the 1990s, when Sir Alex Ferguson often deployed two flying wingers. Kanchelskis never represented the country of his birth though, instead playing for Russia when the USSR split. Scored a hat-trick in a 5-0 demolition of United’s arch neighbours, Manchester City.

Random fact: 21 of 23 playing squad members play in the Ukrainian league.

Defining Euro moment: Securing the rights to Euro 2012 – it will be the nation’s debut in the tournament!

Betting: 60/1

France

Words by Thomas Willoughby, whom can be found on Twitter!

Two-time European Championship winners in 1984 and 2000, France had a decent qualifying campaign, winning six of 10 matches, and only losing once to Belarus. France finished top of the qualification group by a solitary point, and join England, Sweden and co-hosts Ukraine in the tournament proper. France has seen a major footballing revolution under Laurent Blanc, casting out Raymond Domanech’s odd ‘methods’ to focus on player form rather than star signs! France is on a 23-game unbeaten run, beating Germany on the way.

Last five matches: (W) Estonia 4-0 | (W) Serbia 2-0 | (W) Iceland 3-2 | (W) Germany 2-1 | (D) Belgium 0-0

FIFA Ranking: 16

Nickname: Les Bleus (The Blues)

Manager: Laurent Blanc – took over after the travesty of 2010. And Blanc deserves huge praise for the drastic improvement seen in the French national side in the past two years. A former United centre-back, French captain, and Ligue 1 winner with Bordeaux as manager, Blanc can draw upon vast experience to motivate his squad. Blanc’s side plays attractive attacking football, while remaining difficult to break down at the back. Potential successor to Sir Alex Ferguson at Old Trafford?

Key Players:

• Hugo Lloris (c), Olympique Lyonnais, goalkeeper – French captain at just 25, with more than a decade ahead of him in the game. Proven in the Champions League with Lyon, and often considered one of the world’s  best ‘keepers in the world. Worth a punt for the Golden Glove
• Samir Nasri, Manchester City, midfielder – a key component in City’s Premier League title last season. Nasri is on the verge of becoming the complete attacking midfielder – can score, create, with decent pace. Nasri is a fantastic tournament away from being one of the best. If only he’d chosen United…
• Karim Benzema, Real Madrid, forward – another ‘one that got away’, Benzema had a slow start to his Madrid career, yet has turned it around in the last season, netting 67 goals in 133 appearances overall for Los Merengues. Powerful and deadly in the 18-yard-box – could score a a hatful of goals.

United interest: Patrice Evra captained United for much of last season. The speedy left-back has suffered a very patchy time with France though after being fingered for a key role in the ‘revolts’ of 2010. Suffered a five-match international ban, but back in the squad and set to start the tournament. Could play a key role if France goes far in the competition.

Random Fact: France haven’t progressed from the group stage of a major tournament since making the World Cup final in 2006.

Defining Euro Moment: Sylvain Wiltord’s last-gasp equalizer against Italy in Euro 2000. Trezeguet would score a golden goal in extra time, but, in truth, France had it won with the equalizer.

Betting: 10/1

Euro 2012 is around the corner, with 16 national teams heading to bases in Poland and Ukraine ready for the big kick on Friday. And while we’re firmly Manchester United focused here at Rant, we’ll be covering the tournament in full: current and former Reds on show, with luck some outstanding football, and a big old trophy to be won! Spain defend the tournament won in Austria and Switzerland – Fernando Torres scoring the only goal of the game as La Roja beat Germany in the Vienna final. Indeed, Spain remain the bookies favourites four years on, although Germany, Holland, Italy and France will each harbour some hope. England – not so much.

In Rant’s team-by-team preview we assess each side’s chances, pick out the key players and recall some favourite moments.

Group A – Czech Republic, Greece, Poland, Russia
 

Czech Republic

Words by Guy Bottomley, whom you can follow at Sporting Ketchup and on Twitter!

Gone are the days of Pavel Nedved and Patrick Berger, and by the looks of the current squad, the Czech’s have made little progress replacing them. Coming second in qualifying to world champions Spain, Czech Republic had to rely on a playoff win against Montenegro to cement a place at Euro 2012. With preparations for the competition culminating in a home loss to Hungary, it’s difficult to foresee the Czech’s doing anything extraordinary in Poland and Ukraine. Frequently a pundit’s ‘dark horse’ bet in previous international tournaments, the Czech’s know how to get to the latter stages of tournaments, but a lack of match winners this time round points to a group stage exit.

Last 5 Matches: (L) Hungary 2-1, (W) Israel 2-1, (D) Republic Of Ireland 1-1, (W) Montenegro 1-0, (W) Montenegro 2-0

Fifa Ranking: 26

Nickname: Narod’ak (The National Team)

Manager: Michal Bilek – no, not a badly typed Michael Ballack – took control of the Czech’s before qualifying, but was faced with the problem of replacing four of his best players who had retired – all time leading scorer Jan Koller, Marek Jankulovski, Tomas Galasek and Tomas Ujfalusi. Not exactly minor players.  Bilek has been on the end of some harsh criticism in Czech Republic of late, but considering the resources available he hasn’t done too badly at all. Deploying a 4-2-3-1 formation, with a blend of youth and experience, Bilek  has gone some way to plugging the gaps in his team.

Key Players:

• Petr Cech, Chelsea, goalkeeper – first name on the team sheet, and Champions League winning goalkeeper, Petr Cech is vital if the Czech Republic is to make it out of the group stages. Perhaps less of a ‘keeper than before an awful skull injury in 2006, but experienced, level-headed and a phenomenal shot stopper. Cech is likely to be very busy this summer.
• Tomas Rosicky, Arsenal, midfielder – despite going off the boil in the past 18 months, Rosicky ended the Premier League season with a string of strong performances for Arsenal. Yet to prove he is the same player Arsenal brought to the Emirates, but in a Czech side lacking that bit of creativity, Rosicky may just be the one to provide it. Surely his last big chance to shine on the international stage.
• Daniel Kolář, FC Viktoria Plzeň, midfielder – gained admirers after some strong performances in the Champions League with Plzen. A very quick, attacking, midfielder with an eye for goal, Kolar could be that spark that the Czech Republic need so badly this summer. A strong bet to be the Czech’s top scorer.

United Interest: Tomas Pekhart was rumoured to be a target for the Reds following an impressive showing at the U20 World Cup five years ago. The most notable link between United and Czech Republic is the one, and only, Karel Poborsky, who scored a ridiculous chip in Euro 96 against Portugal.

Random Fact: Czech people drink more beer than anyone else in the world. That may go some way to explaining the genetic make-up of the aforementioned Poborsky.

Defining Euro Moment: Finishing runners-up to Germany at Euro 96. (Czechoslovakia won the tournament in 1976, beating Germany on penalties…)

Betting: 50/1

Greece

Words by Chris Steriopulos, whom can be found at his blog and on Twitter, and by Alan Robbins, whom can be found on Twitter!

The surprise Euro 2004 winners have qualified for the last three major international tournaments. Trips to Euro 2008, WC 2010 and now Euro 2012 have eclipsed the nation’s pre-2004 record of one finals in over twenty years. The ageing side, which is captained by 2004 hero, 117 cap Giorgos Karagounis, is lucky to be placed in the easiest group in the finals. Greece will be hoping for a spirited display in three games against Poland, Czech Republic and Russia. A passage into the quarter-finals is not out of the realm of possibility, but a group exit is the more likely scenario.

Last five matches: (D) 1-1 Russia | (L) 1-3 Romania | (D) 1-1 Belgium | (D) 1-1 Slovenia | (W) 0-1 Armenia

FIFA Ranking: 15

Nickname:  Galanolefki (Blue-White)

Manager: Replacing the legend, “King Otto” Rehhagel, as manager is Portuguese boss Fernando Santos, who has done a solid job to date. Previously Santos had managed the Athens giants AEK and Panathinaikos, as well as Benfica. Santos’ last managerial assignment was at another Greek club PAOK. The coach has only suffered just one defeat in his reign as Greek manager, with a record of 10 wins, seven draws, and the one loss against Romania late in 2011.

Key Players:

• Giorgos Samaras, Celtic, striker –  27-year-old, 6ft 4in, former Manchester City striker Samaras has scored just seven in 54 international appearances, but can be a threat from set-pieces
• Giorgos Karagounis, Panathinaikos, midfielder – in his second spell at the Athens club, and now 35, Karagounis remains an instrumental member of the Greek side. Karagounis will need all his experience and skill to help his troubled homeland out of the group stages
• Kyriakos Papadopoulos, Schalke, defender – the 20-year-old defender has taken advantage of injuries in the Blue and White’s back-four to stake a claim for a starting berth.  Papadopoulos played in the Schalke side that reached the Champions League semi-final in 2011. Euro 2012 finals will be another welcome addition to a blossoming CV
• Theofanis Gekas, unattached, forward – the much-travelled striker is playing to earn a contract going into Euro 2012. The former Eintract Frankfurt, Hertha Berlin, Panathinaikos, VfL Bochum and Bayer Leverkusen man was released by Samsunspor recently after a short-term deal with the Turkish side. A record of 58 caps and 21 goals is solid, and Gekas has scored goals wherever he’s played.

United interest: flying winger Soritis Ninis was linked with United in 2010-2011, and he fit the bill – young, skilful and versatile. However it looks like Ninis will join Italians Parma following the expiration of his contract. United’s loss could well be Parma’s gain.

Random fact: prior to winning the tournament in 2004 Greece had never won a match in the tournament

Defining Euro moment: Angelos Charisteas’ headed goal to win Euro 2004 in Portugal. Rival Denmark as the most unlikely major tournament winners in international football history.

Betting: 100/1

Poland

Words by Lewis Taylor, whom can be found on Twitter!

Poland failed to qualify for any Euro tournament between 1960 and 2004, before reaching Euro 2008 only to go out at the group state. As co-hosts with neighboring country Ukraine, Poland will hope for better fortunes this time around. But with little competitive football, and one of the weakest looking squads in the competition few hold out hope for the hosts’ progress.

Last five matches: (W) Bosnia-Herzegovina  | (D) 0-0 Portugal , (W) 1-0 Latvia, (W) 1-0 Slovakia,(W) 4-0 Andorra.

FIFA Ranking: 65

Nickname: Biało-czerwoni (The white and reds)

Manager: Franciszek Smuda – incredibly veteran coach Smuda is in to his 20th job as a manager, although most have come in his native country. Most recently Smuda was sacked by Lech Poznań before taking on the national job. Won the Polish League in 1996 and 1997, and as a German passport holders, ranks of one of very few Poles not to have switched nationality in recent years.

Key Players:

• Wojciech Szczesny, Arsenal, goalkeeper –  Highly rated young ‘keeper who has claimed a place between the sticks for both Arsenal and the national team over the past 18 months. Safe hands, and comfortable under the high ball, Szczesny is set for a very busy summer. Essential if Poland is to progress in the tournament
• Łukasz Piszczek, Borussia Dortmund, defender – outstanding right back who has been a part of the German champions’ team since a 2010 move from Hertha Berlin. Most pundits’ choice as the leading right-back in the Bundesliga
• Jakub Błaszczykowski (c), Borussia Dortmund, midfielder – another player from the German champions and a key cog in midfield at both club and national level. Perhaps only second to Szczesny in importance to the hosts’ chances this summer
• Robert Lewandowski, Borussia Dortmund, forward – the man who fired BVB to the title last season, scoring 2 Bundesliga goals in the process. Fox in the box, and one to watch if Poland is to make it past the group stages for the first time!

United interest: in addition to securing Shinji Kagawa, the Reds have been ‘linked’ with a move for Lewandowski in the press.

Random fact: Poland won the third placed play-off in the 1982 World Cup, beating Brazil 1-0.

Defining Euro moment: Qualifying ahead of Portugal in qualification for Euro 2008.

Betting: 50/1

Russia

Words by Ben Coates, whom can be found at his blog and on Twitter!

Russia has only been a national side in its own right for the past 20 years, playing its first international match on 16 August 1992, beating Mexico 2-0. Euro 2012 will be the sixth time Russia has competed in a major tournament, including two World Cup’s (1994 and 2002) and four Euros (1996, 2004, 2008 and 2012). Russia’s best performance came in 2008 when the country reached the semi-final.

Last five matches: (D) Greece 1-1 | (W) Denmark 2-0 | (D) Uruguay 1-1 | (D) Lithuania 0-0 | (W) Italy 3-0

FIFA Ranking: 13

Nickname: Sbornaya (Team or Selection)

Manager: Dick Advocaat – was a moderately successful player, but is far better known as a coach, which has included two stints with the Dutch national team. Advocaat has coached a number of clubs in the Netherlands and abroad, including Russian club Zenit Saint Petersburg, with whom he won the 2008 UEFA Cup Final, as well as the national teams of a number of other countries, including South Korea, the United Arab Emirates, and Belgium. Advocaat is also well-remembered in Britain for his time at Rangers, where he secured treble in his first year in charge.

Key Players:

• Andrei Arshavin, Arsenal, forward – the talented attacking player has frustrated Arsenal fans for years. Sometimes a match winner – he once scored four goals  at Anfield – yet too often  considered lazy and disinterested. Excelled in 2008, could this be the Russian’s last big stage?
• Roman Pavlyuchenko, Lokomotiv Moscow, forward – the big blonde striker that shot to fame by scoring goals against England in  Euro 2008 qualification, which contributed towards England failing to make it to the tournament. Pavlyuchenko scored a decent share of goals at Spurs, but spent much of his time on the bench. Strong-as-an-ox, with an eye for goal, and an outside bet for the tournament’s top goal scorer
• Pavel Pogrebnyak, Fulham, forward – burst onto the scene during 2011/12 Premier League season at Fulham, scoring freely from January onwards. Will form a potent trio of goalscorers in Russia’s armory.

United interest: Who can forget the Reds’ Champions League triumph in Moscow, 2008, which is etched into most fans’ memories!

Random fact: 20 of 23 playing squad members earn a living in Russia.

Defining Euro moment: Beating Holland, who were tournament favourites, 3-1 in Euro 2008 quarter-final.

Betting: 20/1

Euro 2012 is around the corner, with 16 national teams heading to bases in Poland and Ukraine ready for the big kick on Friday. And while we’re firmly Manchester United focused here at Rant, we’ll be covering the tournament in full: current and former Reds on show, with luck some outstanding football, and a big old trophy to be won! Spain defend the tournament won in Austria and Switzerland – Fernando Torres scoring the only goal of the game as La Roja beat Germany in the Vienna final. Indeed, Spain remain the bookies favourites four years on, although Germany, Holland, Italy and France will each harbour some hope. England – not so much.

In Rant’s team-by-team preview we assess each side’s chances, pick out the key players and recall some favourite moments.

 
Group C – Croatia, Spain, Italy, Ireland
 
Croatia

Vatreni qualified via the play-offs beating Turkey 3-0 on aggregate over two legs after finishing second behind Greece in qualification. Goalscoring has been Croatia’s major concern, with midfielder Niko Krancjar top goalscorer in qualification. Former Arsenal man Eduardo will be supported by the prolific Nikica Jelavić during the tournament, but can the Everton man transfer club form to the international stage for the first time with Ivica Olić injured?

Last five matches: Turkey W 3 – 0 | Turkey D 0 – 0 | Sweden L 1 – 3  |  Estonia W 3 – 1 | Norway D 1 – 1

FIFA Ranking: 8

Nickname: Vatreni (The Blazers)

Manager: Slaven Bilic – the former West Ham United defender has led his country since 2006, remaining in charge despite plenty of offers from club football. It’s been a mixed period with Croatia making it out of the group stage at Euro 2008, before failing to qualify for World Cup 2010. Bilic will step down after the tournament to take charge of Russian club Lokomotiv Moscow.

Key players:

• Luka Modrić – the Tottenham Hotspur man remains Croatia’s metronome in midfield. Critics point to Modrić’s poor goalscoring record for a creative player, but the midfielder’s ability to pass, move and dictate play marks him out as a potential tournament star
• Darijo Srna (c) – the experienced defender will lead his team into the tournament with more hope than expectation. Key to Croatia’s ability to remain defensively sound during the tournament
• Nikica Jelavić – can the Everton forward transplant an outstanding season to the international stage? He may need to with Bayern Munich man Olić out of the tournament

United interest: Sir Alex retains an ongoing interest in Modric, although he is unlikely to ever bring the 26-year-old to Old Trafford.

Random fact: the country’s top goalscorer Davor Šuker played twice for Yugoslavia before Croatia’s first official international match in 1990.

Defining Euro moment: Šuker’s wonderful lob over Peter Schmeichel in Croatia’s 3–0 win over reigning champions Denmark in 1996.

Betting: 50/1

Spain

The Euro 2008 and World Cup 2010 winners retain a core group of players from Barcelona and Real Madrid that make Spain many pundits’ favourites once again in 2012. There is undoubted quality in-depth, with a passing system that is hard to combat. But will David Villa’s injury blunt Spain’s cutting edge, especially against teams that will inevitably park the bus? Perhaps the final tournament for Spain’s Golden Era.

Last five matches: Costa Rica D 2-2 | 5 – 0 W Venezuela | Serbia W 0 – 2 | South Korea W 1 – 4 | China  W 1 – 0

FIFA Ranking: 1

Nickname: La Roja

Manager: Vicente del Bosque – World champion, twice La Liga winner, and twice Champions League winner, del Bosque’s record is almost unsurpassed. Perhaps key, however, to del Bosque’s success with the national team is to have adopted wholesale Barcelona’s tiki-taka style and tactical system, and changing very little from Luis Arogones’ Euro 2008 winning side. Arguably faces his greatest challenge in the past four years with a Spanish team missing key players.

Key players:

• Xavi Hernandez, Barcelona, midfielder – still the midfield master, who’s near perfect passing sets the tone for the Spanish team. Injury and potential burn-out after four years of near constant football are a worry, but still essential to Spain’s chances this summer
• Andreas Iniesta, Barcelona, midfielder – Spain’s cutting edge from midfield, who’s goals may be key in David Villa’s absence. Can play central or wide depending on del Bosque’s formation
• Fernando Torres, Chelsea, forward – it has not been the greatest 18 months for the £50 million Chelsea forward, but better form and two cup competition victories have boosted Torres’ confidence at a crucial time. Must find goalscoring touch if Spain is the retain the title.

United interest: Gerard Piqué – the former United youngster has gone on to many bigger and better things with Barcelona. What could have been.

Random fact: The national team did not play a full international match until 1920 when Spain beat Denmark 1–0 in the Olympic Games.

Defining Euro moment: Fernando Torres’ 33rd minute strike in the final of Euro 2008 to beat Germany 1–0 in Vienna.

Betting: 3/1

Italy

Italy ran away with a qualification group that boasted very little quality – the Azzurri beat Estonia, Serbia, Slovenia, Northern Ireland, and the Faroes. Just two goals conceded in the process suggests the Italy of old, but this is little more than an Italian cliché with Serie A undergoing an attacking renaissance. Can Italy win it? Logic says probably not, but Cessare Prandelli has the team winning again after the disaster of the 2010 World Cup.

Last five matches: Serbia D 1–1 | Northern Ireland W 3–0 | Poland W 2–0 | Uruguay L 0–1 | United States L 0–1

FIFA Ranking: 12

Nickname: Azzurri (The Blues)

Manager: Cesare Prandelli – the experienced journeyman coach is now in his seventh major job. But Prandelli has fashioned an Italian side that has regained some pride after the disastrous 2010 World Cup where the Italians finished bottom of the group. Prandelli hasn’t won a thing in his career bar two Serie B titles – and that’s very rare for an Italian national team manager.

Players:

• Andrea Barzagli, Juventus, defender – an outstanding central defender who has just completed a superb season for Juventus at the back. Key  to Italy’s tight defence during qualification
• Andrea Pirlo, Juventus, midfielder – the deep-lying play maker around whom all Italy’s tactics are based, and whom is key to Italy’s success. Premature injury would surely end Italy’s hopes
• Antonio Di Natale, Udinese, forward – ageing striker who has not always been appreciated at international level, but scored plenty of goals for Udinese in last few years

United interest: nothing to see here, especially after Giuseppe Rossi was ruled out of the tournament through injury, although Mario Ballotelli – the player all Reds love to hate – is in Italy’s squad.

Random fact: 1968 is the only time that Italy has won the tournament, beating Yugoslavia in the final. However, this was a three game tournament in which Italy just once, and scored only three goals!

Defining Euro moment: Despite ’68 the defining modern moment came in 2000 when David Trezeqguet lashed home a golden-goal for France to win the tournament.

Betting: 16/1

Republic of Ireland

Words by Jonathan Cooksey, whom you can follow of Twitter here!

Despite having failed to qualify for 13 out of the 14 Euro Championships since its inception in 1960, Ireland had an impressive qualification campaign winning six of 10 games, drawing three and losing just once to eventual group winners Russia. Ireland scored 20 goals and conceded just eight times on the road to Poland and Ukraine, with the team’s vast experience at the back a vital component of the achievement. Shay Given, Richard Dunne and John O’Shea remain pivotal figures, and under Trapattoni, Ireland have employed an offensive strategy based around counter attacking football – a tactic that is unlikely to be abandoned in games against Croatia, Italy and Spain.

Last five matches: Estonia W 0-4 | Estonia D 1-1 | Czech Republic D 1–1 | Bosnia and Herzegovina W 1–0 | Hungary D 0-0

FIFA Ranking: 18

Nickname: The Boys in Green

Manager: Giovanni Trappatoni – replaced Steve Staunton as manager in February of 2008, following a disappointing spell under the former Liverpool defender. Under Trappatoni’s guidance Ireland impressively completed a 10 game 2010 World Cup qualification campaign unbeaten, missing out on a spot in South Africa thanks to that Thierry Henry handball. That is all behind the Irish now though, with the team qualifying for a first Euro Championship in 24 years.

Key players:

• Shay Given, Aston Villa, goalkeeper – with a 122 international appearances, making him Ireland’s most capped player of all time, the shot-stopper is one of the cornerstones of this Irish team. Given is as reliable as death and taxes for club and country even as he approaches his 37th birthday. The Aston Villa player also donates his international match day fees to charity – one of footballs genuine good guys*.
• Richard Dunne , Aston Villa, defender – much like his Aston Villa teammate, a central figure in the Irish defence that in qualification maintained an impressive 5 clean sheets. The teams “modus operandi” is based around Trapattoni’s counter attacking style. One he must help employ if they are to have any hope of escaping the “group of death”.
• Robbie Keane, Los Angeles Galaxy, forward – Ireland’s all-time top scorer with an impressive 53 goals in a 117 appearances. Ireland will need the USA-based striker to carry the sort of form demonstrated in qualification where Keane bagged seven goals – the same tally as Ronaldo – in a team that often struggles to create chances

Defining euro moment: Ray Houghton’s sixth minute winning header against England at Euro ’88. Oh how the Guinness must have flowed!

United interest: While Paul McShane and Darron Gibson are in the squad, it’s United’s old ‘handyman’ John O’Shea whom Reds should cheer on. Despite being on the end of much criticism in his last few years at Old Trafford, and bearing an uncanny resemblance to “Max & Paddy’s” mongrel child, O’Shea offered United fans many special moments in nearly 400 appearances – the nutmeg on Figo nutmeg and that chip against Arsenal at Highbury. Magic!

Random fact: Kevin Doyle committed more fouls in qualification than any other player with 28.

Betting: 100/1

Euro 2012 is around the corner, with 16 national teams heading to bases in Poland and Ukraine ready for the big kick on Friday. And while we’re firmly Manchester United focused here at Rant, we’ll be covering the tournament in full: current and former Reds on show, with luck some outstanding football, and a big old trophy to be won! Spain defend the tournament won in Austria and Switzerland – Fernando Torres scoring the only goal of the game as La Roja beat Germany in the Vienna final. Indeed, Spain remain the bookies favourites four years on, although Germany, Holland, Italy and France will each harbour some hope. England – not so much.

In Rant’s team-by-team preview we assess each side’s chances, pick out the key players and recall some favourite moments.

Group B – Denmark, Germany, Netherlands, Portugal

 
Denmark

The Danes did well to qualify ahead of Portugal, but can Morten Olsen’s side score enough goals to make it through the clichéd ‘group of death’? Denmark scored just 15 in eight qualification matches, with a tactical system based on a solid defence in the typical ‘Olsen Gang’ style. However, in Christian Eriksen the Danes possess one of the most exciting young creative midfielders in the tournament.

Last five matches: Sweden W 2–0 | Finland W 2–1 | Russia L 0-2 | Brazil L 1-3 | Australia W 2-0

FIFA Ranking: 9

Nickname: De Rød-Hvide (The Red and Whites)

Manager: Morten Olsen – manager for 12 years, although may step down after the tournament much as the 62-year-old promised to do following the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. Olsen had an outstanding playing career, earning more than 100 caps for his country, and his teams have followed a pattern of solid if at times functional football through a long-managerial career with Brøndby, FC Köln and Ajax.

Key players:

• Cristien Eriksen, Ajax, midfielder – nimble with good feet, can score and create goals. Eriksen is much coveted across Europe and an outstanding tournament may yet see Ajax inundated with offers for the 20-year-old
• Simon Kjaer, Wolfsburg/Roma, defender – Kjaer had a really good World Cup in 2010 before making a surprise move from Palermo to Wolfsburg. Has spent the season on loan at Roma and publicly stated he does not want to return to Germany
• Daniel Agger (c), Liverpool, defender – Agger will be key to Denmark’s progress in the tournament, with the Liverpool defender the rock on which the Danes will keep it tight at the back

United interest: Anders Lindegaard who will be reserve keeper. Kasper Schmeichel, son of Peter, is also in the squad – tenuous link alert!

Random fact: Four players in the squad play at French club Evian, which begs the question of why the Danes don’t play with a more fluid style?!

Defining Euro moment: winning Euro 1992 after being called up from the beach!

Betting: 100/1

 
Germany

Three times winners of the Euros in 1972, 1980, and 1996, and boasting an outstanding qualification campaign with 10 wins in 10 games, 34 goals and just seven against. No wonder Germany are many pundit’s favourites for the tournament. Coach Jogi Löw has built on the exciting young side that performed ahead of expectations in World Cup in 2010. At the same time there is huge experience in the squad with seven of the top 20 most capped players in Germany’s history in Löw’s party.

Last five matches: Ukraine D 3–3 | 3–0 W Netherlands | 1–2 L France | Switzerland L 5–3 | 2–0 W Israel

FIFA Ranking: 2

Nickname: Die Mannschaft (The Team)

Manager: Joachim Löw –  improved upon Jurgen Klinnsman’s outfit when the former striker walked away in 2008. In tandem with Klinnsman, Löw developed Germany’s fast-paced attacking style that won over plenty of fans in South Africa. Looks set to build another German dynasty with the current team – Germany’s best since the 1990s.

Key players:

• Phillip Lahm, Bayern Munich, defender – Germany’s captain is one of world football’s truly outstanding full-backs, working off either side of the pitch. Leader, talisman, and all round good egg. Lahm keeps the team together off the pitch, with egos firmly in check. What would Fergie give to have him at Old Trafford? A lot
• Mesut Özil, Real Madrid, midfielder – the outstanding young German playmaker has just completed much better second season in Spain than his first. Özil remains the creative hub from the centre, or drifting in from wide areas. The player Ferguson calls “the ghost” is fantastic to watch, and seems to have fixed a stamina problem – due a big tournament
• Thomas Muller, Bayern Munich, forward – will start on the right of a three-man attack, but may come under pressure from Mario Gotze if the Bayern man doesn’t start the tournament well. Is Muller a striker or midfielder or a bit of both? Either way, Muller is yet another talented young attacking German.

United interest: Ron-Robert Zieler may be named after a smalltown hick, but the former United trainee has done very well back home in Germany following a move to Hannover in 2009. Third choice ‘keeper for Germany this summer.

Random fact: Despite being, well, rubbish Miroslav Klose and Lukas Podolski have 106 international goals between them!

Defining Euro moment: Oliver Bierhoff’s 95th minute golden-goal to win Euro 1996 against Czech Republic.

Betting: 10/3

 
Netherlands

1988 Euro winners Holland have built on a superb World Cup tournament in 2010. Although many remember the Dutch’s thuggish display against Spain in the final, Bert van Marwijk’s team played some fine football during the tournament too. Holland emerged victorious in nine of 10 games in qualification to top the group. Many people’s favourites for the tournament even if the back-four contains some less-than-stellar names.

Last five matches: England W 2-3 | Germany L 3-2 |  Bulgaria L 1-2 | Slovakia W 2-0 |  Northern Ireland W 6-0

FIFA Ranking: 4

Nickname: Oranje

Manager: Bert van Marwijk – it’s hard to call van Marwijk’s a stellar career, and it is perhaps it was a symptom of Dutch football’s low point after Euro 2008 that the former Feyenoord man got the job at all. van Marwijk made his name at Feyenoord in the early 2000s, but had a less than successful time at Borussia Dortmund. Has turned the Oranje around though, returning the team to its roots of fluid attacking football based on a young vibrant team.

Key players:

• Wesley Sneijder, Internazionale, midfielder – still Holland’s creative hub around whom van Marwijk’s team is built. If Sneijder plays, so does Holland. Five goals at World Cup 2010, but lots on injury problems since too
• Arjen Robben, Bayern Munich, midfielder – selfish, wasteful and devastating all in the same bald-headed package. Which Robben will turn up in Poland and Ukraine? Too often shoots when he should pass, and has spent a career battling injuries. But when he can do this little else matters
• Robin van Persie, Arsenal, forward – the Arsenal striker will share goalscoring duties with Jan-Klaas Huntelar at the tournament. Indeed, the Arsenal man has a less-than-stellar international goalscoring record. Still, just had the best season of his career – should be his time to shine.

United interest: Robben once turned down United after Sir Alex showed the youngster around Old Trafford – choosing Roman Abramovich’s filthy lucre instead.

Random fact: Left-back Jetro Willems will be the youngest player at the tournament having only just turned 18.

Defining Euro moment: Marco van Basten’s outrageous volley in the final of Euro 88 – still one of the best goals ever.

Betting: 7/1

 
Portugal

Portugal had to make it through the play-offs to qualify for Euro 2012 after a dispiriting period under former United assistant Carlos Quieroz. For a team with Cristiano Ronaldo and Nani, Portugal has under-achieved in the past two years, although the mitigation of multiple retirements post World Cup 2010 is fair. Scored plenty of goals during qualification, but also conceded too. Much will depend whether Pepe can replicate his Real Madrid form at the back, and Ronaldo can keep scoring. Third favourites in the group – and that might be generous given that Denmark beat Portugal to qualification.

Last five matches: Bosnia and Herzegovina D 0-0 D | Bosnia and Herzegovina W 6-2 | Poland D 0-0 | Macedonia D 0-0 |  Turkey L 1-3

FIFA Ranking: 10

Nickname: A Selecção (The Selection)

Manager: Paulo Bento – one of the youngest managers at the tournament. Bento was a gritty defensive midfielder for Sporting, Benfica, and the national team before retiring at the age of 35. First took charge of Sporting’s youth team, before a successful spell as head coach of the first team that included two Portuguese Cups and two Supercups. Bento couldn’t win the Portuguese League, however, before taking over from Quieroz in 2010.

Key players:

• Ronaldo, Real Madrid, forward – much will ride on the former United player’s ability to both lead his team, and score enough goals to keep Selecção in the tournament past the group stage. Just completed a fantastic season with 60 goals in all competitions. Will this be the tournament in which Ronaldo emerges from Lionel Messi’s long shadow?
• Nani, Manchester United, forward – the United winger is brilliant and frustrating in equal measure. Contract negotiations may be ongoing at Old Trafford, but can Nani justify his self-hype with performances in this tournament?
• Pepe, Real Madrid, defender – Real’s provocateur-in-chief is certain to be many neutral’s bête noire, but he is still central to Portugal’s ability to make it out of the group. Ronaldo et al should provide a threat if Pepe can marshal the back-four to keep more clean sheets than in qualification.

United interest: Nani, Ronaldo – see above!

Random fact: Portugal 0–10 England, Lisbon, Portugal, 25 May 1947 remains Selecção’s biggest ever loss.

Defining Euro moment: Angelos Charisteas’ 57th minute goal for Greece that won Euro 2004, and Ronaldo’s tears that followed.

Betting: 20/1